I had a coaching session today with a mom of a strong-willed five-year-old and she was growing weary of the seemingly constant negative interaction with her son. “He’s sassy. He hits. He doesn’t obey. He runs away from me. He makes farting noises in time out. He climbs under the table at meals. He read more…

The final two tantrum categories are the signature tantrums of the Level Four (Challenging Child) though all kids will dabble in these now and again. Level Four children have a clear sense of justice (predominately favoring themselves) and they know exactly what they want to do and what they don’t want to do 24 hours read more…

All kids have emotional break downs. We spend nine months or even nine years dreaming of butterfly kisses, giggles and hugs but nonetheless, our children will still behave like children. Putting fits into categories is one way to differentiate the unique qualities of a child’s meltdowns and adjust our “battle” strategy accordingly. But it is read more…

Part 1: Tantrums are a reality: Embrace them (The following ramblings on toddler tantrums are based solely on observational and anecdotal data gathered over the last 21 years. No scientific studies support my claims. But still.) I’m always amazed at the number of young moms who talk to me with such surprise, guilt, and angst read more…

Helping Your Five-Year-Old Not Binge Drink “Are you guys hammered?” That was the comment my 14-year-old received on a social media site after he posted a short video of himself and three friends laughing and sumo-wrestling. Just a few months ago I reminded him that 7th and 8th grade is usually when some of the read more…

Over the years I have come across a few of the blogs from the “Scary Mommy” blogosphere. They are usually real, raw, and humorous. Sure, they often contain superfluous expletives that I could live without, but often I enjoy the interesting content. I sometimes even nod in agreement…but not today. Today I need to push back read more…

Anyone with kids has probably wondered, “Hey who’s really in charge around here anyway?” The answer to this question might surprise you: Sometimes you have the power. But sometimes your child has it. The key is in discerning the difference. Now don’t panic. I am not suggesting that parents defer to their kids. No. You read more…

The Power of the Parent/Child Relationship Our parenting is most effective when we parent through a positive relationship, with authority, 24/7. The foundation of this three part thesis is the positive parent-child relationship. This does not mean “friend.” It means parent. Creating and maintaining a positive relationship with each of your children will read more…

The following is a collection of almost two decades of the highlights and lowlights of raising four boys, born within five years. These memories have been hand picked to best represent the nuances of raising little boys, medium boys, and teen boys. (Plenty of opportunities below for Mommy Shaming, but refraining would allow those moms read more…

Have you ever heard the repetitive mantra of, “I’m BORED!” (slight whine implied) at your house? Are you diligently preparing right now for a summer of possible boredom with camps, classes, and activities for your kids? Does their boredom become your problem? Do you fear their boredom? Rather than fearing it or trying read more…